Tree stands, ladders, and associated systems and methods

ABSTRACT

A tree stand system is provided. The tree stand system may include a tree stand. The tree stand may include a frame post, a platform portion engaged with the frame post, and a seat portion engaged with the frame post. Further, the tree stand may include an upper engagement device and a lower engagement device each configured to engage a structure. One of the upper engagement device and the lower engagement device may define a convex edge configured to extend toward the structure to allow the tree stand to roll against the structure to select a horizontal angle that the tree stand faces. The tree stand system may further include one or more of a ladder, a hoisting apparatus, and an accessory. The accessory may include a bow holder accessory or a hunting device accessory.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This is a continuation application of U.S. application Ser. No.15/219,013, filed on Jul. 25, 2016, which claims the benefit of U.S.Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/234,411 to Berry et al.,filed Sep. 29, 2015 and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No.62/196,107 to Berry et al., filed Jul. 23, 2015, which are entirelyincorporated herein by reference.

TECHNOLOGICAL FIELD

The present disclosure generally relates to installing an apparatus in atree and, more particularly, to the installation of a tree standsuitable for hunting, observation, and/or the like.

BACKGROUND

Stands that mount to tree trunks are commonly referred to as treestands. Difficulties have been associated with assembling, installingand using some types of prior tree stands. Accordingly, a need existsfor improved tree stands and associated systems and methods.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

One aspect of this disclosure is the provision of tree stands, andsystems and methods for installing tree stands, and related accessories.In one example, a system for installing a tree stand may include amounting apparatus and a hoisting apparatus that are cooperativelyconfigured so that they may be used to conveniently and efficientlyinstall a wide variety of differently configured tree stands, or thelike. Accordingly, the mounting apparatus may optionally be referred toas a universal mounting apparatus.

The mounting apparatus may include a mount attaching unit fixedlyconnected to a mount bracket. The mount attaching unit is configured tosecure the mount bracket to a structure such as, but not limited to, thetrunk of a tree. The mounting apparatus may also include a receiverportion operably connected to the mount bracket. The receiver portionmay define at least one receiver locking hole and a receiving channel.

A tree stand may include at least one seat connected to a frame postconfigured to be operably engaged with the receiver portion. The framepost may define at least one frame post hole configured for beingpositioned proximate the at least one receiver locking hole when theframe post is operably engaged with the receiver portion. The frame postmay include a locking mechanism configured to releasably secure theframe post and the receiver portion to one another. For example, thelocking mechanism may include at least one locking tooth forsimultaneously protruding into holes of the frame post and the receiverportion in a manner that causes the frame post and the receiver portionto be locked to one another.

The hoisting apparatus may include a hoist attaching unit fixedlyconnected to a hoist bracket. The hoist attaching unit is configured tosecure the hoist bracket to a structure. For example, the hoistingapparatus may be mounted to the same tree trunk as, and above, themounting apparatus. In one example, the hoisting and mountingapparatuses may be mounted to the tree trunk after climbing sticks, orthe like, are mounted to the tree trunk to facilitate ascending the treetrunk for the purpose of mounting the hoisting and mounting apparatuses.

The hoisting apparatus may further include a hoisting mechanism that isconnected to the hoisting bracket. The hoisting mechanism may beconfigured to draw (e.g., pull) the frame post of the tree standupwardly along the tree trunk and into the receiver portion, so that thetree stand and the mounting apparatus become fixedly connected to oneanother.

In one aspect, a tree stand system is provided. The tree stand systemmay include a tree stand. The tree stand may include a frame post, aplatform portion engaged with the frame post, a seat portion engagedwith the frame post, and an upper engagement device and a lowerengagement device each configured to engage a structure. One of theupper engagement device and the lower engagement device may define aconvex edge configured to extend toward the structure to allow the treestand to roll against the structure to select a horizontal angle thatthe tree stand faces.

In some embodiments, an other one of the upper engagement device and thelower engagement device may define one or more receiving edgesconfigured to at least partially surround the structure and secure thetree stand at the horizontal angle selected. The convex edge and the oneor more receiving edges may each define a plurality of teeth. The treestand may further include an upper tie down mechanism configured toextend around the structure. The upper engagement device and the uppertie down mechanism may each be engaged with the frame post at a sameheight therealong. The tree stand may further include a lower tie downmechanism engaged with the frame post between the upper tie downmechanism and the platform portion.

In some embodiments, the upper engagement device may be positioned abovethe platform portion and the lower engagement device may be positionedbelow the platform portion. The tree stand may further include a lowerlinkage configured to move the lower engagement device toward or awayfrom the structure. The lower linkage may be further configured toadjust an angle of the lower engagement device with respect to thestructure. The lower linkage may include first and second extensiblerods that are pivotably engaged with first and second ends of the lowerengagement device and independently adjustable.

In some embodiments, at least one of the upper engagement device and thelower engagement device may be engaged with the frame post. The treestand may further include an accessory mount engaged with the frame postbehind the seat portion. The accessory mount may include first andsecond mounting bars extending substantially parallel to one another.The tree stand system may further include an accessory configured toengage the accessory mount and extend to a position in front of the seatportion. The accessory may be selected from a group consisting of ahunting device accessory and a bow holder accessory.

In some embodiments, the tree stand may further include a second framepost engaged with the platform portion and a second seat portion engagedwith the second frame post. A cross-member may extend between the framepost and the second frame post. The upper engagement device may beengaged with the cross-member.

In some embodiments, the tree stand system may further include a ladderand a forward step. The forward step may be disposed between theplatform portion and the ladder. The tree stand system may furtherinclude a hoisting apparatus configured to engage the structure and liftthe tree stand to a desired height therealong. The hoisting apparatusmay include a motion input member configured to rotate and coil aflexible tensile member to lift the tree stand. The tree stand systemmay further include one or more climbing sticks. The climbing sticks mayinclude a central frame and a plurality of steps engaged therewith. Eachof the steps may include a first section and a second section. The firstsection and the second section may be substantially identical andoppositely disposed about the central frame. The first section and thesecond section may each define a plurality of inner protrusions thatcooperatively surround the central frame.

In an additional aspect, a system is provided. The system may include ahoisting apparatus configured to be mounted to a tree trunk or othersuitable structure, a mounting apparatus configured to be mounted to thetree trunk or other suitable structure at a position below the hoistingapparatus, and a frame post configured to latch to the mountingapparatus. The hoisting apparatus may be configured to pull the framepost upwardly to the mounting apparatus so that the frame post latchesto the mounting apparatus and is at least partially supported by themounting apparatus.

In some embodiments, the frame post is part of a tree stand. The treestand may have at least one seat. The seat may include a seat attachingbracket configured to secure the seat to the frame post, a seat bottomframe operably engaged with the seat attaching bracket, a seat backframe operably engaged with the seat attaching bracket, and at least onea seat cover operably engaged with the seat bottom frame and the seatback frame.

In some embodiments, the frame post may be part of a tree stand system.The tree stand system may include at least one seat, a main platformpositioned below the seat, a secondary platform positioned below themain platform, and a ladder extending downwardly from proximate thesecondary platform. The frame post may at least indirectly and at leastpartially support each of the at least one seat, the main platformpositioned below the seat, the secondary platform positioned below themain platform, and the ladder extending downwardly from proximate thesecondary platform.

In some embodiments, the hoisting apparatus may include an attachingunit configured for at least partially mounting the hoisting apparatusto the tree trunk or other suitable structure. The mounting apparatusmay include an attaching unit configured for at least partially mountingthe mounting apparatus to the tree trunk or other suitable structure.The mounting apparatus may include a receiver portion defining areceiving channel for at least partially receiving the frame post. Theframe post may include a locking mechanism configured to latch to themounting apparatus. The locking mechanism may include at least onelocking tooth, at least one biasing element operably engaged with the atleast one locking tooth for urging the at least one locking toothoutwardly, and a locking slide operatively associated with the at leastone locking tooth for at least allowing inward movement of the at leastone locking tooth.

In an additional aspect, a method is provided. The method may includemounting a mounting apparatus to the tree trunk or other suitablestructure at a position below the hoisting apparatus. Further, themethod may include moving a frame post upwardly along the tree trunk orother suitable structure so that the frame post engages and becomessecured to the mounting apparatus.

In some embodiments, the frame post may be part of a tree stand. Themethod may further include mounting a hoisting apparatus to the treetrunk or other suitable structure at a position above the mountingapparatus. Moving of the frame post may include the hoisting apparatusat least partially facilitating pulling the frame post upwardly alongthe tree trunk or other suitable structure.

In an additional aspect, an article for being mounted to a tree trunk isprovided. The article may include a frame, an engagement deviceincluding an outer side facing away from at least a portion of the frameand configured to engage a tree trunk, and at least one pivotableconnection between the frame and the engagement device. The at least onepivotable connection may be configured to allow the engagement device tobe pivoted relative to the frame to adjust engagement between the outerside of the engagement device and a tree trunk when the article ismounted to the tree trunk.

In some embodiments, the article may further include at least onetranslatably adjustable connection between the frame and the engagementdevice. The at least one translatably adjustable connection may beconfigured to allow the engagement device to be moved inwardly andoutwardly relative to the frame to adjust engagement between the outerside of the engagement device and a tree trunk when the article ismounted to the tree trunk.

In some embodiments, the frame may include first and second framemembers that are substantially parallel to one another and may eachextend outwardly relative to a portion of the frame. The at least onetranslatable connection may include first and second rods that arerespectively operatively associated with the first and second framemembers so that the first rod can be moved along and secured relative tothe first frame member independently of the second rod, and the secondrod can be moved along and secured relative to the second frame memberindependently of the first rod. The engagement device may include firstand second portions that are spaced apart from one another along alength of the engagement device. The at least one pivotable connectionmay include a first pivotable connection between the first portion andthe first rod, and a second pivotable connection between the secondportion and the second rod.

In an additional aspect, an article for being mounted to a tree trunk isprovided. The article may include a first frame, an engagement deviceconnected to the first frame and including an outer side facing awayfrom at least a portion of the first frame and configured to engage atree trunk when the article is mounted to the tree trunk, and a tie downmechanism. The tie down mechanism may include a second frame, a tensilemember connected to the second frame and configured to extend at leastpartially around the tree trunk when the article is mounted to the treetrunk, a mechanical ratchet connected to the second frame and configuredto tighten the tensile member around the tree trunk when the article ismounted to the tree trunk, and at least one connection between the firstframe and the second frame.

In some embodiments, the at least one connection between the first frameand the second frame may include a linkage connecting the second frameto the engagement device. The linkage may include a bar pivotablyconnected to at least one frame selected from the group consisting ofthe first frame and the second frame.

In an additional aspect, a method of mounting an article to a tree trunkis provided. The method may include mounting an upper portion of thearticle to an upper portion of the tree trunk so that the article is atleast partially supported by the tree trunk. Further, the method maythen include adjusting orientation of the article relative to the treetrunk while the upper portion of the article is mounted to the upperportion of the tree trunk. The article may include a linkage connectinga lower engagement device of the article to a frame of the article.Adjusting of the orientation of the article may include repositioningthe lower engagement device relative to the frame. An outer side of thelower engagement device may be engaged against a lower portion of thetree trunk. Repositioning of the lower engagement device relative to theframe may include reconfiguring the linkage from a first configurationto a second configuration.

In some embodiments, mounting of the upper portion may include engagingan upper engagement device against the upper portion of the tree trunk.Adjusting of the orientation of the article may further include securingthe linkage in the second configuration. Moving of the lower engagementdevice relative to the frame may include one or more of pivoting thelower engagement device relative to the frame, moving the lowerengagement device inwardly relative to the frame, and/or moving thelower engagement device outwardly relative to the frame.

In some embodiments, the article may include a tree stand. The articlemay include a ladder. The article may include a climbing stick.

These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the disclosure willbe apparent from the following detailed description together with theaccompanying drawings, which are briefly described below.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Having thus described the disclosure in the foregoing general terms,reference will now be made to the accompanying drawings, which are notnecessarily drawn to scale, and wherein:

FIG. 1A illustrates a top front perspective view of various componentsof a tree stand system according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 1B illustrates a side view of the article of FIG. 1A;

FIG. 1C illustrates a bottom rear perspective view of the article ofFIG. 1A;

FIG. 2A illustrates a side view of the article of FIG. 1A in a storedconfiguration according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2B illustrates a top rear perspective view of the article of FIG.1A in the stored configuration;

FIG. 3 illustrates a perspective view of a mounting apparatus, a framepost, and a locking mechanism according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 4A illustrates a front perspective view of the mounting apparatusof FIG. 3;

FIG. 4B illustrates a front view of the mounting apparatus of FIG. 3;

FIG. 4C illustrates a side view of the mounting apparatus of FIG. 3;

FIG. 4D illustrates a rear perspective view of the mounting apparatus ofFIG. 3;

FIG. 5 illustrates an exploded view of the mounting apparatus of FIG. 3according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of an attaching unit of themounting apparatus of FIG. 3 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 7 illustrates a perspective view of the frame post and the lockingmechanism of FIG. 3 according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 illustrates a perspective view of the frame post of FIG. 3according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 9 illustrates a perspective view of the locking mechanism of FIG. 3according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10A illustrates a perspective view of various components of thelocking mechanism of FIG. 3 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 10B illustrates a side view of various components of a lockingmechanism according of FIG. 3 to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 illustrates a perspective view of various components of thelocking mechanism of FIG. 3 according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12A illustrates a perspective view of a hoisting apparatusaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 12B illustrates a front view of the hoisting apparatus of FIG. 12A;

FIG. 13A illustrates top front perspective view of a seat portion of thetree stand of FIG. 1A according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13B illustrates a top rear perspective view of the seat portion ofFIG. 13A;

FIG. 14 illustrates top front perspective view of a seat attachingbracket, a seat bottom frame, and a seat back frame of the tree stand ofFIG. 1A according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15A illustrates a top front perspective view of the seat attachingbracket of FIG. 14 according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 15B illustrates a top rear perspective view of the seat attachingbracket of FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 illustrates a perspective view of the seat back frame of FIG. 14according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 illustrates a perspective view of the seat bottom frame of FIG.14 according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18A illustrates a top front perspective view of seat portions of atree stand according to one aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 18B illustrates a top rear perspective view of the seat portions ofFIG. 18A;

FIG. 19 illustrates a top front perspective view of a seat portion and ashooting rail of a tree stand according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 20 illustrates a top front perspective view of various componentsof a tree stand system according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 21 illustrates an enlarged view of various components of the systemof FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a rear, bottom pictorial view of a tree stand, in accordancewith an embodiment of this disclosure;

FIG. 23 is a bottom pictorial view of a portion of the tree stand ofFIG. 22;

FIG. 24 is a rear, top pictorial view of a portion of the tree stand ofFIG. 22;

FIG. 25 is a rear pictorial view of a portion of the tree stand of FIG.22;

FIG. 26 is a front, top perspective view of a tree stand according toone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 27 is a side view of the tree stand of FIG. 26;

FIG. 28 is a rear, bottom perspective view of the tree stand of FIG. 26;

FIG. 29 is an alternate rear, bottom perspective view of the tree standof FIG. 26;

FIG. 30 is an enlarged perspective view of an upper mounting system andaccessory mount of the tree stand system of FIG. 26;

FIG. 31 is an enlarged view of a lower engagement device and a lowerlinkage of the tree stand of FIG. 26;

FIG. 32 is a top perspective view of a tree stand system including atree stand and a ladder according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 33 is an enlarged front perspective view of the tree stand of FIG.32;

FIG. 34 is an enlarged side perspective view of the tree stand of FIG.33;

FIG. 35 is a partial rear perspective view of a tree stand systeminclude two seat portions according to one aspect of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 36 is an outer perspective view of a climbing stick according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 is an inner perspective view of the climbing stick of FIG. 36;

FIG. 38 is an end view of the climbing stick of FIG. 36;

FIG. 39 is a front perspective view of a hoisting apparatus according toone aspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 40 is a bottom perspective view of the hoisting apparatus of FIG.39;

FIG. 41 is a perspective view of an accessory receiver according to oneaspect of the present disclosure;

FIG. 42 is a perspective view of a bow holder accessory according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 43 is a side perspective view of a hunting device accessoryaccording to one aspect of the present disclosure; and

FIG. 44 is a perspective view of the hunting device accessory of FIG. 43engaged with the accessory receiver of FIG. 41.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure will now be described more fully hereinafter withreference to exemplary aspects thereof. These exemplary aspects aredescribed so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, andwill fully convey the scope of the disclosure to those skilled in theart. Indeed, the disclosure may be expressed in many different forms andshould not be construed as limited to the aspects set forth herein;rather, these aspects are provided so that this disclosure will satisfyapplicable legal requirements.

Various aspects of the present disclosure provide stands and relatedaccessories, and systems and methods for affixing the stands tostructures at elevated positions. An exemplary structure may be anaturally formed structure or a fabricated structure. In one aspect, thesystem may provide for the installation of a tree stand to a tree trunkthat is suitable for sustaining the weight of the tree stand andoccupant(s) of the tree stand.

In some aspects, as shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, a tree stand 10 may include aseat portion 100, a frame post 300, a locking mechanism 400, and aplatform portion 500. The tree stand 10, or a system including the treestand, may further include a mounting apparatus 200 (e.g., universalmounting apparatus) and a hoisting apparatus (shown in later figures).Although the tree stand 10 of FIGS. 1A-1C includes a single seat portion100, other tree stands of this disclosure can include multiple seatportions and can be configured to provide seating for at least twooccupants, as shown, for example, in FIGS. 18A and 18B.

In one aspect, FIGS. 2A and 2B illustrate the tree stand 10 stored in afirst configuration. The tree stand 10 may be configured to bemanipulated from the first configuration (e.g., a stored configuration)to a second configuration (e.g., an operational configuration; see,e.g., FIGS. 1A-1C), and vice versa. In particular, the seat portion 100and the platform portion 500 may be configured to pivot and/or fold suchthat the overall volume occupied by the tree stand 10 in the firstconfiguration is less than the overall volume occupied by the tree standin the second configuration.

FIG. 3 further illustrates the mounting apparatus 200, frame post 300,and a portion of the locking mechanism 400 of the tree stand of FIG. 1.The mounting apparatus 200 may be configured to assist in leveling thetree stand 10, seat portion 100, frame post 300, and/or platform portion500 with respect to horizontal when installing the tree stand at anelevated position on a structure (e.g., a tree trunk). For example, asshown in FIGS. 4A-4D, the mounting apparatus 200 may include a swivelportion 240 configured to rotate a receiver portion 214 about a fastener212 (see, FIGS. 4B, 4D and 5). The swivel portion 240 may include a disc241 (see, FIGS. 4A and 4B), which may comprise plastic or other suitablematerial, and which may be disposed between a mount bracket 202 and thereceiver portion 214. The swivel portion 240 and/or the receiver portion214 may include pins, drums, guides and/or other suitable physicalfeatures that are configured to assist and/or route a hoisting member606 (see, e.g., FIG. 12A) therethrough such that the frame post 300 andlocking mechanism 400 are directed into the receiver portion 214 in thedesired orientation, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

According to one aspect illustrated in FIGS. 4A-4D, the mount bracket202 of the mounting apparatus 200 may be a flange-shaped body memberthat includes a main bracket plate 204 that extends between and isconnected to two flange portions 206. That is, and for example, theflange-shaped mount bracket 202 may include the main bracket plate 204and corresponding flange portions 206. The flange portions 206 mayextend substantially perpendicularly to the main bracket plate 204. Theflange portions 206 may define at least one engagement feature 208,which may include a plurality of teeth configured to grip an exteriorsurface of the tree trunk, or the like. Although the at least oneengagement feature 208 is illustrated as a plurality of serrations, theat least one engagement feature 208 may alternatively be any surfacefeature and/or material that is configured to increase the frictionbetween the mount bracket 202 and the exterior surface of the treetrunk, or the like. The one or more engagement features 208 may extendhorizontally, vertically and/or in any other suitable orientation.

As shown in FIG. 5, the main bracket plate 204 may define a bracket hole210. The bracket hole 210 may be configured to receive a fastener 212therethrough, which provides for operable engagement between the mountbracket 202 and the receiver portion 214. The fastener 212 may beconfigured to operably engage the receiver portion 214 and the mainbracket plate 204 so as to provide for the above-referenced swiveling(e.g., rotation of the receiver portion about a longitudinal axis A(FIG. 4C) of the fastener). The receiver portion 214 may define areceiver portion hole 216 (FIG. 4B) configured to receive the fastener212 therethrough, which also extends through the bracket hole 210. Onceengaged with the mount bracket 202, the receiver portion 214 may,according to one aspect, be capable of rotating three hundred sixtydegrees about the longitudinal axis A while still being securelyconnected to the main bracket plate 204 via the fastener 212. Thefastener 212 may comprise a nut and bolt, or the like, that can betightened with respect to one another to restrict relative rotationbetween the mount bracket 202 and the receiver portion 214 after themounting apparatus 200 has been mounted to a tree trunk and the receiverportion is “leveled” (e.g., the lengthwise axis of the receiver portionis extending substantially vertically).

According to some aspects, the receiver portion 214 may further define areceiving channel 218 extending from proximate a distal end of thereceiver portion 214 to proximate a proximal end of the receiver portion(e.g., from the top of the receiver portion to the bottom of thereceiver portion). As shown in FIGS. 4B and 5, the receiver portion 214may further define at least one receiver locking hole 220. The receiverportion 214 may define a first receiver locking hole 220 on a firstsurface of the receiver portion and may define a second receiver lockinghole 220 disposed on an opposing second surface of the receiver portion.For example, FIG. 4D illustrates a rear perspective view of the mountingapparatus 200 where a rear, second surface of the receiver portion 214defines a second receiver locking hole 220 that is disposed opposite ofthe first receiver locking hole 220 defined by the opposing front, firstsurface of the receiver portion (see, e.g., FIG. 4B). The receiverlocking holes 220 may be configured to receive and operably engagelocking teeth of the locking mechanism 400 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) that isconfigured to secure the frame post 300 (see, e.g., FIG. 3) to themounting apparatus 200, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

Referring to FIGS. 4A-6, a mount attaching unit 230 may be fixedlyconnected to the mount bracket 202. For example, the mount attachingunit 230 may be secured to one of the flange portions 206. The mountattaching unit 230 may be configured to secure the mount bracket 202 toa structure (e.g., a tree trunk) at an elevated position. For example,an elongate first flexible tensile member (not shown) may be configuredto extend at least partially around the tree trunk and engage the mountattaching unit 230. The first flexible tensile member may be in the formof a woven material such as, for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing,and/or the like. The mount attaching unit 230 may be configured toreleasably secure a second end of the first flexible tensile member tothe mount attaching unit 230. The opposing, first end of the firstflexible tensile member may be fixedly connected to the flange portion206 that is opposite from the flange portion 206 carrying the mountattaching unit 230.

As shown in FIG. 6, the mount attaching unit 230 may include a manuallyoperated winch 232 configured to engage the first flexible tensilemember. For example, the winch 232 may be configured to secure, tighten,and/or fasten the first flexible tensile member to the mount attachingunit 230 such that the mount bracket 202 is secured to the tree. Forexample, the winch 232 may include a rotatable drum having a slot orhole for receiving the second end of the first tensile member, so thatthe drum may be rotated to tighten the first tensile member. When thedrum is rotated, the first flexible tensile member is drawn into a coil,and accordingly, is tightened about the perimeter of the tree trunk. Thewinch 232 may further include a mechanism to prevent the tension in thefirst flexible tensile member from back driving the winch and unravelingthe first flexible tensile member. For example, the winch 232 mayinclude a gear 234 and a pawl 236 configured to lock the winch in adesired position and/or to allow rotation of the winch in one direction(e.g., a flexible tensile member tightening direction) while preventingthe winch from rotating in the opposing direction (e.g., a flexibletensile member loosening direction).

According to some aspects, the mounting apparatus 200 may be lighterthan an assembled tree stand known to those of ordinary skill in theart. As an example, the mounting apparatus 200 may be lighter than thecombination of the seat portion 100, the frame post 300, and the lockingmechanism 400. As such, a method of installing the tree stand 10 (see,e.g., FIG. 1) may include first attaching the mounting apparatus 200 tothe structure (e.g., a tree trunk) before installing the seat portion100 and/or other portions of the tree stand system, as will be discussedin greater detail below. In particular, the relatively light weight ofthe mounting apparatus 200 may advantageously provide for increasedsafety while installing the tree stand 10 as the user may orient,adjust, position, manipulate, and/or the like the mounting apparatuswith relative ease due to the decreased weight.

FIG. 7 illustrates the frame post 300 and locking mechanism 400assembled together, whereas they are respectively illustrated inisolation in FIGS. 8 and 9. The locking mechanism 400 may be configuredto simultaneously lockingly engage both the frame post 300 and thereceiver portion 214 of the mounting apparatus 200 (see, e.g., FIG. 5),as will be discussed in greater detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, the frame post 300 may define at least oneframe post hole 302 configured to receive and/or operably engage atleast one locking tooth 402 of the locking mechanism 400 therethrough.When the frame post 300 is operably engaged with the mounting apparatus200, the at least one frame post hole 302 may be aligned and/or disposedproximate the at least one receiver locking hole 220 (see, e.g., FIG.5), so that the receiver locking hole 220 is configured to receive theat least one locking tooth 402 of the locking mechanism 400therethrough. Thereby, the at least one locking tooth 402 may extendthrough both the frame post hole(s) 302 and the receiver locking hole(s)220. Additionally, the frame post 300 may be configured to providesupport for positioning the seat portion 100 and/or the platform portion500 with respect to the tree and/or other suitable structure.

Referring to FIG. 8, the frame post 300 may further define at least oneframe post slot 304 that extends longitudinally along a length of theframe post 300. Referring also to FIG. 7, the at least one frame postslot 304 may be configured to receive therethrough at least a portion ofa locking slide 406 of the locking mechanism 400. The at least one framepost slot 304 may include a first frame post slot and a second framepost slot disposed on a laterally-opposed surfaces of the frame post300, for respectively receiving portions of the locking slide 406. Thelocking slide 406 may be configured to engage and/or disengage the atleast one locking tooth 402.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 7, the at least one locking tooth 402 of thelocking mechanism is configured to extend through and/or operably engagethe at least one frame post hole 302 and the at least one receiverlocking hole 220. As shown in FIGS. 9, 10A and 10B, the lockingmechanism 400 may include the first locking tooth 402 and a secondlocking tooth 404, each of which is configured to operably engagerespective frame post holes 302 and respective receiver locking holes220.

As shown in FIGS. 9 and 11, the locking slide 406 of the lockingmechanism 400 may include a flange element that includes a main portion410 and two laterally opposing flange portions 412 that extendsubstantially perpendicular to the main portion. Additionally, thelocking slide 406 may include a slide retention member 414 that extendsfrom the first flange portion 412 to the laterally opposed second flangeportion 412. The slide retention member 414 may be configured to extendthrough and be retained within each of the frame post slots 304 (see,FIG. 8) defined by the frame post 300. Therefore, longitudinal movementof the locking slide 406 may be restricted to the length of the framepost slots 304.

As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the locking mechanism 400 may furtherinclude a rod member 416, a first biasing element 418, and a secondbiasing element 420, wherein the biasing elements may be springs.Referring also to FIG. 9, the slide retention member 414 may beconnected to the rod member 416 so that the rod member extendslongitudinally from the slide retention member to the first biasingelement 418.

As shown in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the first and second biasing elements418, 420 may be configured to operably engage each of the first andsecond locking teeth 402, 404. In one aspect, as shown in FIG. 10B inparticular, the first and second biasing elements 418, 420 may beconfigured to bias opposing surfaces of the first and second lockingteeth 402, 404 such that when the first and second biasing elements aresubstantially undisturbed by external forces, the first and secondbiasing elements cooperate and bias the first and second locking teethinto a locked position in engagement with the frame post holes 302 andthe receiver locking holes 220.

According to some aspects, the first and second locking teeth 402, 404are configured to pivot and rotate inwardly towards a longitudinal framepost channel 306 (see, FIG. 8) defined by the frame post 300, such thatwhen a predetermined force is applied to an outer surface of the firstand second locking teeth, the first and second locking teeth retreatwithin the frame post channel. Additionally, the first and secondlocking teeth 402, 404 may be configured to pivot and rotate inwardlytowards the frame post channel 306 in response to the force beingapplied to the locking teeth 402, 404 by the first biasing element 418sufficiently exceeding the force being applied to the locking teeth 402,404 by the second biasing element 420. As such, the first and secondlocking teeth 402, 404 may be configured to move between a lockedposition shown in FIG. 3, wherein the frame post 300 is secured to thereceiver portion 214 (see, FIG. 5) of the mounting apparatus 200, to anunlocked position, wherein the frame post is configured to be removablefrom the receiver portion.

Generally reiterating from above with reference to FIG. 9, a distal endof the rod member 416 may be operably engaged with (e.g., connected to)the slide retention member 414. Generally reiterating from above withreference to FIGS. 10A and 10B, a proximal end of the rod member 416 maybe operably engaged with the first biasing element 418. Because thefirst biasing element 418, the rod member 416, the slide retentionmember 414 and the locking slide 406 (see, e.g., FIG. 9) are allmechanically and/or operably linked to one another, actuating thelocking slide 406 can cause an actuation of the first biasing element418. According to one aspect, manually displacing the locking slide 406into an upper position towards the first and second locking teeth 402,404 will cause the rod member to lift an upper frame 421 of the lockingmechanism 400 to which the first and second locking teeth are attached.Thereby, the locking teeth may release from engagement with the framepost holes 302 and the receiver locking holes 220.

In this regard, as illustrated in FIGS. 10A and 10B, the first andsecond locking teeth 402, 404 may each include an engagement slot 424.The engagement slots 424 may be configured to engage frame post 300 atthe frame post holes 302 and the receiver portion 214 of the mountingapparatus 200 at the receiver locking holes 220. However, when thelocking slide 406 is displaced into the upper position, the firstbiasing element 418 applies a force towards the first and second lockingteeth 402, 404 such that the engagement slots 424 lift up from andrelease from the frame post 300 and the receiver portion 214. Further,when the locking slide 406 is displaced into the upper position, theforce applied by the first biasing element 418 to the first and secondlocking teeth 402, 404 causes the first and second locking teeth topivot inwardly within the frame post channel 306 defined by the framepost 300. As such, the first and second engagement slots 424 defined bythe first and second locking teeth 402, 404, respectively, willdisengage and move inwardly within the frame post channel 306 defined bythe frame post 300 such that the frame post will be configured to beremovable from the receiver unit 214 of the mounting apparatus 200. Thelocking slide 406 is normally biased by the biasing elements 418, 420into a lower position away from the locking teeth 402, 404, so that thebiasing elements 418, 420 bias the locking teeth 402, 404 toward theiroutward positions wherein they are engaged with the frame post 300 andthe receiver portion 214 of the mounting apparatus 200.

The upper frame 421 of the locking mechanism 400 may include anattachment feature that can be an eyelet 422 disposed proximate aproximal end of the locking mechanism. The locking teeth 402, 404 may bepivotably mounted to the upper frame 421 between first and secondportions thereof. The upper end of the second biasing element 420 may befixedly mounted to the upper frame 421 of the locking mechanism 400. Theupper frame 421 of the locking mechanism 400 may be received in theframe post 300 in the configuration shown in FIG. 7.

The eyelet 422 may be configured to receive a tensile member such as,for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing, and/or the liketherethrough. The tensile member may be secured, attached, and/orotherwise affixed to the eyelet 422 such that the locking mechanism 400and the frame post 300 may be together hoisted into a desired elevatedposition. For example and referring also to FIGS. 12A and 12B, ahoisting member 606 of a hoisting apparatus 600 may be the tensilemember that is secured to the upper frame 421 of the locking mechanism400 by way of the eyelet 422, or the like, as will be discussed ingreater detail below. In one example, the hoisting member 606 extendsthrough the receiving channel 218 (FIG. 4A) and an associated guidechannel of the mounting apparatus 200, the mounting apparatus ispositioned between the tree stand 10 and the hoisting apparatus 600, andthe hoisting apparatus 600 is operable to raise, lift, and/or hoist thetree stand (e.g., the frame post 300, locking mechanism 400, seatportion 100, and platform portion 500) to a desired elevated position asselected by the placement and/or installation of the mounting apparatusat the desired position, as will be discussed in greater detail below.

As shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the hoisting apparatus 600 may include ahoisting bracket 602 and associated features for securing the hoistingapparatus at an elevated position on a tree trunk, or the like. Forexample, the hoisting bracket 602 may include, or have mounted thereto,one or more engagement features (serrated features) similar to theengagement features 208 (FIG. 4A) discussed above. Also, the hoistingapparatus 600 may have connected thereto a hoist attaching unit that issimilar to the above-discussed mount attaching unit 230 (FIGS. 4A-6),wherein the hoist attaching unit can be cooperative with a flexibletensile member for mounting the hoisting apparatus to the same treetrunk as, and above, the mounting apparatus 200.

The hoisting apparatus 600 may further include a hoisting mechanism 604configured to hoist and/or lift the tree stand 10 with the hoistingmember 606. The hoisting member 606 may include a woven material suchas, for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing and/or the like,configured to operably engage, lift and/or support the tree stand 10(e.g., the frame post 300, locking mechanism 400, seat portion 100,and/or the platform portion 500). The hoisting member 606 may beoperably engaged and/or affixed to a portion of the hoisting mechanism604. For example, the hoisting member 606 may be affixed to a rotatabledrum 608 of the hoisting mechanism 604. Therefore, rotation of therotatable drum 608 may cause at least a portion of the hoisting member606 to be wound onto itself and/or an outer surface of the rotatabledrum, such as for causing the hoisting member 606 to lift the frame post300 and, thus, the tree stand 10, or the like.

The hoisting mechanism 604 may include any one or a combination ofpulleys, gears, wheels, reels, and/or the like configured to lift and/orlower the frame post 300 with the hoisting member 606. For example, asshown in FIGS. 12A and 12B, the hoisting mechanism 604 may include atleast one gear 610. In one embodiment the hoisting mechanism 604 mayinclude a plurality of gears 610. Further, the at least one gear 610 maybe operably engaged with the rotatable drum 608. In particular, rotationof any one of the gears 610 may cause the rotatable drum 608 to rotatein a corresponding fashion. The hoisting apparatus 600 may include anactuation member (not shown) configured to operably engage the at leastone gear 610. For example, the plurality of gears 610 may be configuredand/or arranged to advantageously provide a mechanical advantage for thelifting of the frame post 300 and associated features. The hoistingmechanism 604 may comprise a winch that includes the at least one gear610 and drum 608 and is configured for selectively pulling in/windingup, and letting out/winding out the hoisting member 606. For example,the winch may include a manually operable handle or crank and/or a motorfor causing the drum 608 to rotate. In one example, the winch may beexternally powered by a rechargeable drill, and may have a gear ratio ofabout thirty to one, or the winch may be powered in any other suitablemanner and have any other suitable gear ratio.

As discussed above with reference to FIGS. 1A-1C, the tree stand 10 mayinclude the seat portion 100 and platform portion 500 mounted to theframe post 300. As shown in FIG. 13A and 13B, the seat portion 100 mayinclude a seat bottom portion 102 and a seat back portion 104. The seatportion 100 may further include a seat cover 101 such as, for example, awoven fabric material and/or the like configured to engage a seat bottomframe 106 and/or a seat back frame 108. For example, the seat cover 101may include loops, channels, and/or other features configured to receiveat least a portion of the seat bottom frame 106 and/or the seat backframe 108 therethrough.

As shown in FIG. 14, the seat portion 100 may include a seat bracket 110configured to engage the seat bottom frame 106 and/or the seat backframe 108. Additionally, the seat bracket 110 may include at least oneseat post fastener 112 such as, for example, a U-bolt and/or the like.As shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B, the seat bracket 110 may include two seatpost fasteners 112. The seat post fastener 112 may be configured tooperably engage the frame post 300 (see, e.g., FIG. 7). Referring alsoto FIGS. 1B, 1C, 2A and 2B, the seat post fasteners 112 may extend fromthe seat bracket 110 and may be configured to receive the frame post 300therebetween. The seat post fasteners 112 may be configured to providefor the vertical adjustment of the seat portion 100 relative to theframe post 300.

Returning to FIG. 15A, the seat post fasteners 112 may each beconfigured to operably engage the seat bracket 110. At least a portionof each seat post fastener 112 may extend through the seat bracket 110and may be secured to the seat bracket with a nut 114. In one aspect,each seat post fastener 112 may be secured to the seat bracket 110 withtwo nuts 114 that each engage separate threaded portions of the seatpost fastener that extend through the seat bracket. Advancing the nuts114 along the threaded portions of the seat post fastener 112 may causethe seat post fastener to travel inwardly towards the seat bracket 110.More particularly, advancing the nut 114 along the threaded portions ofthe seat post fastener 112 may cause the opening defined between theseat post fastener and the seat bracket 110 to decrease in size suchthat when the frame post 300 extends though the opening, the seat postfastener engages and/or grips the frame post so as to secure the seatbracket to the frame post at a particular position.

Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, the seat bracket 110 may further includeat least one anchoring pin 116 that extends from a first lateral end ofthe seat bracket to an opposing lateral end. The seat bottom frame 106and/or the seat back frame 108 may be configured to operably engage theanchoring pin 116. For example, as shown in FIGS. 13B and 14, theanchoring pin 116 may extend through each of the seat bottom frame 106and the seat back frame 108. As shown in FIG. 15B, the seat bracket 110may define a pair of longitudinal seat back frame channels 118 thatextend longitudinally and may be configured to receive at least aportion of the seat back frame 108 therein. The anchoring pin 116 mayextend laterally across and through each of the seat back frame channels118.

As noted above, the anchoring pin 116 may engage and/or extend throughthe seat back frame 108. For example, as shown in FIG. 16, the seat backframe 108 may define at least one seat back anchoring hole 118configured to receive the anchoring pin 116 therethrough. The anchoringpin 116 may engage and/or extend through the seat bottom frame 106. Asshown in FIG. 17, the seat bottom frame 106 may define at least one seatbottom anchoring hole 120 configured to receive the anchoring pin 116therethrough. Therefore, the anchoring pin 116 may secure and/or retainthe seat bottom frame 106 and/or the seat back frame 108 to the seatbracket 110 when the seat bottom anchoring hole(s) 120, the seat backanchoring hole(s) 118, and/or any holes defined by the seat bracketconfigured to receive the anchoring pin 116 therethrough are alignedwith one another and the anchoring pin is inserted therethrough.

The seat bottom frame 106 may be configured to engage the anchoring pin116 such that the seat bottom frame rotates about the anchoring pin. Forexample, as shown in FIGS. 2A and 2B, the seat bottom frame 106 may berotated towards the seat back frame 108 as the anchoring pin 116 servesas a pivot point. Additionally, according to some aspects, a portion ofthe seat bottom frame 106 defining the seat bottom anchoring hole(s) 120may extend vertically and may be disposed proximate the seat bracket 110such that the seat bracket may limit the rotation of the seat bottomframe 106. For example, the seat bottom anchoring hole(s) 120 may bedisposed proximate an end of a portion of the seat bottom frame 106, asshown in FIG. 17, such that when the seat bottom frame is engaged withthe anchoring pin 116 and/or the seat bracket 110, the seat bottom framemay be rotated upwards towards the seat back frame 108, as previouslymentioned.

The seat bracket 110 may be configured to limit the rotation of the seatbottom frame 106 away from the seat back frame 108 when the seat bottomframe is disposed in a use position. For example, the seat bracket 110may limit the motion of the seat bottom frame 106 by defining a seatbottom frame channel 122 (FIG. 15A) configured to retain at least aportion of the seat bottom frame and/or support the seat bottom framewhen the seat bottom frame is disposed in the use position shown in FIG.1B. Therefore, the tree stand 10 may advantageously provide for a seat100 that does may not include support straps and/or other supportingmechanisms that are attached to both the seat bottom frame and the seatback frame as known in the art. Such supporting mechanisms mayundesirably hinder a user's access to and from the tree stand seat.

The seat bottom frame channel 122 may be accessible from the front ofthe seat bracket 110, while the seat back frame channels 118 may beaccessible from the rear of the seat bracket, as shown in FIGS. 15A and15B. Accordingly, as shown in FIG. 15A, the seat bottom frame 106 may beable to rotate about line X-X along the direction of arrow A, while theseat back frame 108 may be able to rotate about line X-X along thedirection of arrow B. In particular, the seat bracket 110 may beconfigured to limit the rotation of the seat bottom frame 106 along thedirection of arrow B when the seat bottom frame is disposed in a useposition, and the seat bracket may be further configured to limit therotation of the seat back frame 108 along the direction of arrow A whenthe seat back frame is disposed in a use position, as shown in FIG. 14.Additionally, the seat back frame 108 may be secured in the use positionwith a thumbscrew 124 and/or the like, as shown in FIGS. 15A and 15B. Inthis regard, the thumb screw 124 may extend into the bottom of the seatback frame 108 to prevent rotation thereof. The seat bracket 110 mayfurther include a plurality of bumpers disposed proximate where theanchoring pin 116 engages the seat bottom frame 106 and/or the seat backframe 108. The bumper(s) may be configured to mitigate noise as the seatbottom frame and the seat back frame engage the anchoring pin. Thebumper(s) may comprise a plastic material.

Referring to FIGS. 18A and 18B, a tree stand may include a seatingportion 1100 configured to seat two people. The tree stand system mayinclude individual frame posts 300 (see, e.g., FIG. 8) that are eachconfigured to engage one of a first seat bracket 1110 and a second seatbracket 1111 of the seating portion 1100. Additionally, each of theindividual frame posts 300 may be inserted into respective receiverportions 214 of one or more mounting apparatuses 200, as describedabove, for example, with respect to FIGS. 4A-4C.

According to another aspect, the seating portion 1100 configured to seattwo people may include a single seat bracket (not shown) disposedproximately between the two seating portions. The single seat bracketmay be configured to operably engage a single frame post 300 (see, e.g.,FIG. 8) that may be inserted into a single receiver portion 214 of amounting apparatus 200 (see, e.g., FIG. 5). According to another aspectof the present disclosure, a seating portion 1100 configured to seat twopeople, as shown in FIGS. 18A and 18B, may include a first seat bracket1110 and a second seat bracket 1111 that are configured to operablyengage at least one frame, or the like, that is mounted to a singleframe post 300 that may be received by a single receiver portion 214 ofa mounting apparatus 200 approximately centered with respect to the twoseats.

Referring to FIG. 19, the seating portion 100 (and also the seatingportion 1100 of Figs. FIGS. 18A and 18B) may further include a safetyand/or support rail apparatus 130 (e.g., a shooting rail) configured tosupport a weapon (e.g., a rifle), camera and/or other suitable device.In one aspect, the support rail apparatus 130 may be configured tooperably engage the seat back frame 108. For example, as shown in FIG.19, the support rail apparatus 130 may include a U-shaped rail member132 configured to at least partially extend around a user seated in theseating portion 100, and at least one support member 134 configured toprovide support to the rail member. The support rail apparatus 130 mayinclude various geometric features configured to operably engage and/orreceive various mounting systems for accessories such as, for example,cameras, tables, and/or any other suitable accessory. By way of example,at least one mounting hole 77 may be configured to engage an accessory.

Another aspect of the present disclosure is the provision of a treestand system 2010 that includes a ladder 700 configured to provideaccess to the seating portion 2100 from the ground when the seatingportion 2100 is disposed proximate the desired elevated position, asshown in FIGS. 20 and 21. In particular, the tree stand system 2010 mayinclude a forward step 702 (e.g., secondary platform) disposedproximately between the platform portion 2500 (e.g., main platform) andthe uppermost rung 704 (e.g., crossbar) of the ladder 700. The laddertypically includes a series of the rungs 704 spanning between side railsof the ladder, and the side rails may form or be part of a frame 701 ofthe ladder. The forward step 702 may be configured to advantageouslyprovide for increased safety and ease of use (e.g., a wide and stableintermediate step) when a user transitions (e.g., steps) from the ladder700 to the platform portion 2500.

The ladder frame 701 may be operatively connected to and extend from theplatform portion 2500 and/or the frame post 300 (see, e.g., FIG. 8). Inone aspect, the ladder frame 701 may operably engage the platformportion 2500 and/or the frame post 300 so as to provide additionalstructural support to the tree stand system 2010. The ladder frame 701may further include at least one handrail 706 that is configured toprovide additional safety by providing the user with a plurality of handgrip locations as the user traverses the ladder 700, transitions fromthe ladder 700 to the platform portion 2500, adjusts his positioningrelative to the tree stand system 2010 and/or the like. The handrail 706may extend upwardly and at least partially around the seating portion2100, and the seating portion may include one or more seats, or thelike.

Referring to FIGS. 1C and 21, in the tree stand 10 and the tree standsystem 2010, the platform portions 500, 2500 may include a platformframe 502 mounted to and extending forwardly from the frame post 300(see, e.g., FIG. 8), and the platform frame may support both a lowerengagement device 800 and a lower attaching unit 802. For example, thelower engagement device 800 may include a generally U-shaped bar 806having opposite ends attached to the platform frame 502 so that theU-shaped bar extends partially around and rearwardly of the frame post300. The lower engagement device 800 may further include, or havemounted thereto, one or more engagement features 808 (serrated features)similar to the engagement features 208 (FIG. 4A) discussed above. Theengagement features 808 of the lower engagement device 800 may compriseplates (e.g., serrated plates), wherein the serrations extend outwardlyfrom convex edges of the plates for engaging a tree trunk, or the like.The lower attaching unit 802 may be proximate the lower engagementdevice and be similar to the above-discussed mount attaching unit 230(FIGS. 4A-6), wherein the lower attaching unit can be cooperative with aflexible tensile member for mounting the lower end section of the framepost 300 to the tree trunk, or the like.

The convex edges of the lower engagement device 800 are configured toextend toward the structure (e.g. a tree trunk) to allow the tree standto roll against the structure. Thereby, the user may select a horizontalangle (e.g., North, East, South, or West) that the tree stand faces. Inother words, the convex edges may cooperate with the structure, whichmay typically define a substantially round cross-section, in the samemanner that two gears cooperate, so as to allow for relative movementtherebetween. However, as may be understood, the tree or other structureis typically fixed in place such that only the tree stand rotates.

Once a desired horizontal angle is selected, the at least one engagementfeature 208 (see, e.g., FIG. 4D) may be engaged with the structure. Theat least one engagement features 208 may be defined at one or morereceiving edges of the flanges 206. The receiving edges may secure thetree stand at the horizontal angle selected with the convex edges of thelower engagement device 808. In this regard, the one or more receivingedges may be configured to at least partially surround the structure tosecure the tree stand at the horizontal angle selected. Thus, asillustrated, the two flanges 206, which may be vertically extending andseparated from one another to allow the structure, which may be rounded,to be received therebetween. However, as may be understood, in otherembodiments the engagement device may be concave or V-shaped in order toallow the structure to be received therein and secure the tree stand atthe horizontal angle selected. Thereby, although the lower engagementdevice 800 may be configured to allow the tree stand 10 to roll againstthe structure such that the tree stand points in a desired horizontaldirection, the mounting apparatus 200 may be configured to engage thestructure to prevent further rotational movement once a desireddirection of the tree stand is selected and the mounting apparatus isengaged with the structure. Thereby, the tree stand 10 may be securelyretained in a desired position.

In the example of the tree stand system 2010 shown in FIG. 21, the upperend of the ladder frame 701 is connected to the platform frame 2502, andthe portion of the handrail 706 extending above and away from the ladder700 is supported by upright members 708 connected to the platform frame.

Some aspects of the present disclosure provide for a method ofinstalling a tree stand and/or tree stand system. In one aspect, a usermay identify a suitable structure (e.g., a tree trunk) for installingthe tree stand system. The tree stand system may include a plurality ofclimbing or ladder sticks configured to be affixed to the tree usingtraditional means and methods. In some embodiments, each of the climbingsticks may be tethered to one another such that after a first ladderstick has been installed at a desired location on the tree, a user mayretrieve and install a subsequent ladder stick to the tree at a locationdisposed higher than the previously installed ladder stick. According toone aspect, at least one of the climbing sticks may also be tethered tothe mounting apparatus 200 and/or hoisting apparatus 600. In anotheraspect, the mounting apparatus 200 and/or hoisting apparatus 600 may betethered to one another and/or at least one of the climbing sticks.Therefore, after affixing the plurality of climbing sticks to the treeat the desired locations, the user may easily retrieve the mountingapparatus 200 and/or hoisting apparatus 600 without having to descend tothe base of the tree.

According to one aspect, after ascending the structure (e.g., treetrunk) to the desired position using the plurality of climbing sticks orother suitable device(s), the user may install the mounting apparatus200 at a desired location on the tree trunk. The mounting apparatus 200may be significantly lighter and smaller than the tree stand (e.g., theframe post 300, the seat portion 100, and/or the platform portion 500),so that the tree stand system advantageously provides for easier andsafer installation by providing the user with a mounting apparatus thatis easier to carry, manipulate, and/or position.

A method of installing the tree stand system may include installing thehoisting apparatus 600 at a location higher than thepreviously-installed mounting apparatus 200. According to anotheraspect, the user may first install the hoisting apparatus 600 andsubsequently install the mounting apparatus 200 at a location below thehoisting apparatus. In one aspect, when the mounting apparatus 200 andthe hoisting apparatus 600 are installed and/or affixed to the tree attheir respective desired locations, the mounting apparatus and thehoisting apparatus may be spaced apart from one another by approximately2 to 3 feet.

In one aspect, after the hoisting apparatus 600 and the mountingapparatus 200 are installed at their respective desired locations, thefree end of the hoisting member 606 may be routed through the receiverportion 214 and any associated guide structure of the mounting apparatus200 and lowered to the ground. The user may then descend to the groundusing the previously installed climbing sticks. Upon returning to theground, the user may take the hoisting member 600 and operably connectthe hoisting member to the tree stand 10 or tree stand system 2010,(e.g., by way of the eyelet 422, or the like). After the hoisting member606 is securely attached to the eyelet 422, or the like, the user maythen operate the hoisting mechanism 604 (e.g., winch) of the hoistingapparatus 600 to raise the assembled frame post 300 (e.g., the framepost is typically connected to at least the seat portion(s), platformportion(s), and locking mechanism 400), so that the frame post 300 andstructures carried by the frame post are guided to the mountingapparatus 200. In particular, the frame post 300 is guided to thereceiver portion 214 of the mounting apparatus 200. As the frame post300 enters the receiver portion 214, an internal surface of the receiverportion 214 compresses the locking teeth 402, 404 inwardly until theframe post is positioned such that the locking teeth respectively extendthrough the receiver locking holes 220 and the frame post holes 302,thereby securing the frame post 300 and attached structures to themounting apparatus 200 at the desired elevated location. The user maythen further secure the frame post 300 to the mounting apparatus 200 byengaging both the frame post and the mounting apparatus with a safetypin 250 (FIG. 4A) that is configured to traverse through both thereceiver portion and the frame post.

In accordance with an example of a method for removing the frame post300 from the mounting apparatus 200, the safety pin 250 (FIG. 4A) may bewithdrawn, tension in the hoisting member 606 may be substantiallyreduced, such as by operating the hoisting mechanism 604 in reverse, andthe locking slide 406 may be manually moved upwardly toward the mountingapparatus, so that the locking teeth 402, 404 at least temporarilytransition from their locking positions to their unlocked positions.

In variations of all of the above-discussed embodiments, the mountingapparatus 200 may be omitted and the frame post 300 may be in the formof a frame post 300 from which features for being associated with themounting apparatus 200 may be omitted. For example, for theabove-discussed tree stand 10 (e.g., FIG. 1A), the post 300 may notinclude or have associated therewith the above-discussed frame post hole302, frame post slot 304, frame post channel 306, locking mechanism 400,locking teeth 402, 404, locking slide 406, flange portions 410, 412,slide retention member 414, rod 416, biasing elements 418, 420, upperframe 421 and eyelet 422.

An embodiment of the tree stand 10A shown in FIGS. 22-25 may be like theabove-discussed tree stand 10, except for variations noted andvariations that will be understood by those of ordinary skill in theart. In the tree stand 10A, the frame post 300 may not include or haveassociated therewith one or more of, such as all of, the above-discussedfeatures 302, 304, 306, 400, 402, 404, 406, 410, 412, 414, 416, 418,420, 421, 422.

The embodiment of the tree stand 10A shown in FIG. 22 includes one ormore upper mounting systems 25 configured to at least partially mountthe tree stand to an associated tree trunk. Each upper mounting system25 may include an upper engagement device 20 fixedly mounted to an upperportion of the frame post 300. Each upper engagement device 20 mayinclude at least one flange 21 extending outwardly from a bracket plate27 fixedly mounted to the frame post 300. The flanges 21, such asadjacent flanges, of the upper engagement devices 20 may include aconvexly, outwardly protruding edge with a series of teeth configured togrip an exterior surface of a tree trunk.

The convex edges of the upper engagement device 20 are configured toextend toward the structure (e.g. a tree trunk) to allow the tree standto roll against the structure. Thereby, the user may select a horizontalangle that the tree stand faces. In other words, the convex edges maycooperate with the structure, which may typically define a substantiallyround cross-section, in the same manner that two gears cooperate, so asto allow for relative movement therebetween. However, as may beunderstood, the tree or other structure is typically fixed in place suchthat only the tree stand rotates.

Each upper mounting system 25 may further include a tie down mechanism22 having a flexible tensile member connected to the bracket plate 27,and a mechanical ratchet 29 connected to the bracket plate. The flexibletensile member may be in the form of a woven material such as, forexample, a rope, strap, cable, webbing, and/or the like. A first end ofthe flexible tensile member can be connected to the bracket plate 27,and the tensile member can be extended at least partially around thetree trunk. The second end of the tensile member can then be connectedto the spindle of the mechanical ratchet 29, and the mechanical ratchetmay be manually operated by repeatedly pivoting a lever so that themechanical ratchet tightens the tensile member around the tree trunk andthe teeth of the upper engagement devices 20 securely engage the treetrunk.

For each upper mounting system 25, there can be at least one connectionbetween the frame post 300 of the tree stand 10A and the mechanicalratchet 29 of the tie down mechanism 22. For example, for each uppermounting system 25, an upper linkage 24 can connect the mechanicalratchet 29 to the bracket plate 27. By way of further example, for eachupper mounting system 25, the upper linkage 24 can include a bar 26 orother suitable structure having opposite ends that are respectivelypivotably connected between flanges 21 of the upper engagement devices20 and the mechanical ratchets 29 of the tie down mechanism 22. Forexample, the bar 26 may be a substantially rigid link, rod or othersuitable connector member that is in the form of a strip of metal orother suitable material. The bar 26 may be connected to the upperengagement device 20 by a lug or pivot pin having opposite endsrespectively connected to end portions of the flanges 21 of the upperengagement device. While the teeth of the upper engagement devices 20are engaged against or suitably proximate the exterior surface of a treetrunk, the free end of the tensile member of each tie down mechanism 22may be extended at least partially around the tree trunk and then bedrawn tightly into the tie down mechanism, for mounting the upperportion of the frame post 300 and, thus, the tree stand 10A, to the treetrunk.

The embodiment of the tree stand 10A shown in FIGS. 22-25 furtherincludes at least one lower engagement device 28 that is connected tothe frame of the tree stand in an articulated manner, such as by a lowerlinkage 30. The lower engagement device 28 may include two flanges 31extending outwardly from opposite edges of a bracket plate 33. Theflanges 31 of the lower engagement device 28 may include concavely,inwardly protruding edges with a series of teeth configured to grip anexterior surface of a tree trunk.

Once a desired horizontal angle is selected using the convex uppermounting system 25, the lower engagement device 28 may be engaged withthe structure. The flanges 31 of the lower engagement device 28 defineconcave receiving edges configured to receive the structure therein.However, as may be understood, in other embodiments the engagementdevice may be V-shaped or define multiple separated edges that extendvertically in order to allow the structure to be received therein andsecure the tree stand at the horizontal angle selected. Thereby,although the upper mounting system 25 may be configured to allow thetree stand 10A to roll against the structure such that the tree standpoints in a desired horizontal direction, the lower engagement device 28may be configured to engage the structure to prevent further rotationalmovement once a desired direction of the tree stand is selected and themounting apparatus is engaged with the structure. Thereby, the treestand 10A may be securely retained in a desired position.

The frame of the tree stand 10A includes first and second frame members32 that are substantially parallel to one another and each extendoutwardly relative to a forward portion of the frame of the tree stand.The lower linkage 30 of the tree stand 10A includes first and secondextensible rods 34 that are respectively operatively associated with(e.g., extend into) the tubular first and second frame members 32 sothat the first rod can be moved along and secured relative to the firstframe member independently of the second rod, and the second rod can bemoved along and secured relative to the second frame memberindependently of the first rod, so that first and second first framemembers and first and second rods are cooperatively configured toprovide translatable connections of the lower linkage. The rods 34 canbe respectively secured to the frame members 32 with pins (e.g., pinsselectively extending through holes in the frame members and rods) orother suitable releasable fastening devices or locks, so that the lowerlinkage 30 can be releasably secured in a variety of configurations. Thelower engagement device 28 can be connected to one or both of the firstand second rods 34 to allow the engagement device to be moved inwardlyand outwardly relative to the frame to adjust engagement between theouter side of the engagement device and a tree trunk. Thereby, the lowerengagement device 28 may be moved toward or away from the structure.

The lower linkage 30 of the tree stand 10A pivotably connects the lowerengagement device 28 to one or both of the first and second rods 34. Forexample, outer ends of the first and second rods 34 may be pivotablyconnected to opposite end portions or extensions of the flanges of thelower engagement device 28 by lugs, pivot pins and/or other suitablefeatures. Accordingly, the lower engagement device 28 can be pivotedrelative to the frame to adjust an angle of the lower engagement devicewith respect to the structure and to adjust engagement between the outerside of the lower engagement device and a tree trunk when the tree stand10A is mounted to the tree trunk. Thereby, when both rods 34 areextended or retracted, the pitch of the tree stand 10A is adjusted. Whenone of the rods 34 is adjusted related to the other of the rods (e.g.when one of the rods is extended or retracted as compared to the otherrod), the roll of the tree stand 10A is adjusted.

With the first and second frame members 32 being substantially parallelto one another, and the first and second extensible rods 34 extendinginto the tubular first and second frame members 32, the first rod can bemoved along and secured relative to the first frame member independentlyof the second rod, and the second rod can be moved along and securedrelative to the second frame member independently of the first rod. Thefirst and second rods 34 are thus independently extensible in parallelwith each other. In light of the first and second rods 34 beingindependently extensible in parallel with each other, in instances wherethe engagement device 28 is connected to the distal ends of both of thefirst and second rods 34, the engagement device 28 is pivotablyconnected to both of the first and second rods 34 at the distal endsthereof That is, the engagement device 28 is pivotably connected betweenthe distal ends of the first and second rods 34, wherein the first andsecond rods 34 are independently extensible in parallel with each other,as shown, for example, in FIGS. 22-25 and 31.

In further instances where the first and second rods 34 are unequallyextended/retracted with respect to the first and second frame members32, the distance between the distal ends of the first and second rods 34will be greater than the distance between the parallel first and secondrods 34 or between the parallel first and second frame members 32. Thatis, the first and second rods 34 unequally extended/retracted withrespect to the first and second frame members 32 will define a righttriangle, with one leg of the right triangle being the distance betweenthe parallel first and second rods 34 or between the parallel first andsecond frame members 32, and the other leg of the right triangle beingthe difference in extension distance between the distal ends of thefirst and second rods 34 (i.e., the difference between the extensionlength of the first rod 34 with respect to the first frame member 32,and the extension length of the second rod 34 with respect to the secondframe member 32). In such instances, the hypotenuse of the righttriangle will be defined by the engagement device 28, and the lengththereof will inherently be determined by the Pythagorean Theorem. Assuch, in the disclosed arrangement with the first and second rods 34being independently extensible in parallel with each other, the lengthof the engagement device 28 is required to vary from a minimum of thedistance between the parallel first and second rods 34 or between theparallel first and second frame members 32 (e.g., when the first andsecond rods 34 are extended for the same distance), to a maximumattained when one of the first and second rods 34 is fully extended andthe other of the first and second rods 34 is not extended. Accordingly,in particular aspects, the engagement device 28 is extensible betweenthe distal ends of the first and second rods 34.

More particularly, as shown in more detail in FIG. 23, the engagementdevice 28 includes a main body 38 and opposing first and second endbrackets 36, 37 (see, e.g., FIG. 25). Each of the first and second endbrackets 36, 37 is pivotably connected to the distal end of a respectiveone of the first and second extensible rods 34. As shown, the main body38 defines two slots 38A, 38B each extending along the main body 38. Afastener (e.g., a bolt) 39, 40 extends through each slot 38A, 38B on thefront side of the main body 38 and through one of the first and secondend brackets 36, 37 on the back side. Each fastener 39, 40 can beretained through the respective slot 38A, 38B and bracket 36, 37, forexample, by a nut engaging the respective bolt on the back side of themain body 38/bracket 36, 37. Since the first and second end brackets 36,37 are separate elements (not joined on the back side—see, e.g., FIG.25), the fastener 39, 40 being movable in the respective slot 38A, 38Ballows the respective bracket 36, 37 to translate along the main body 38for the length of the respective slot 38A, 38B until the fastener 39, 40contacts either end of the slot 38A, 38B. This arrangement is thus oneexample of the engagement member 28 being extensible.

In one example of a method of mounting the tree stand 10A to a tree, oneor more of the mounting systems may be used to mount an upper portion ofthe tree stand to an upper portion of the tree trunk so that the treestand is at least partially supported by the tree trunk; and then theorientation of the tree stand may be adjusted relative to the tree trunkwhile the upper portion of the tree stand is mounted to the upperportion of the tree trunk. The adjusting of the orientation of the treestand 10A may include repositioning the lower engagement device 28relative to the frame of the tree stand, and an outer side of the lowerengagement device being engaged against a lower portion of the treetrunk. The repositioning of the lower engagement device 28 relative tothe frame of the tree stand may include reconfiguring the lower linkage30 from a first configuration to a second configuration, and securingthe lower linkage in the second configuration. In one example, therepositioning of the lower engagement device 28 relative to the frame ofthe tree can cause the frame post 300 to extend vertically orsubstantially vertically, even when the tree trunk does not extendvertically or includes one or more bends proximate the tree stand 10A.As another example, a user of the tree stand 10A can reposition thelower engagement device 28 to achieve a variety of differentorientations, such as an inclined orientation of the frame post 300,such as when the inclined orientation may allow the user to sit morecomfortably in the tree stand, or the like.

In other embodiments of this disclosure, one or more of the uppermounting systems may be part of other articles configured to be mountedto tree trunks, such as ladders, climbing sticks or other suitablearticles.

As may be understood, the particular configuration of the tree stand mayvary within the scope of the present disclosure. In this regard, FIGS.26-31 illustrate a tree stand 10B according to an additional exampleembodiment of the present disclosure. The tree stand 10B may besubstantially similar to the tree stands described above (see, e.g.,FIGS. 1A and 22) in a number of respects, and hence each of the featuresthereof will not be described in detail for brevity purposes.

As illustrated, the tree stand 10B may include a seat portion 100B, aframe post 300B, and a platform portion 500B. The seat portion 100B mayinclude a seat bracket 110B that retains the seat portion in engagementwith the frame post 300B. Note that a seat cover of the seat portion100B is not illustrated. However, the tree stand 10B may include a seatcover which may be substantially similar to the seat cover 101 describedabove (see, e.g., FIG. 1A).

The platform portion 500B may differ from the embodiments describedabove in that the platform frame 502B may comprise plates, which may beplanar or bent to define a desired cross-section, and/or substantiallyrectangular bars, as opposed to tubes defining a round cross-section.Further, the plates and/or bars may be substantially straight, asopposed to curved. Thereby, component costs of the platform frame 502Bmay be reduced as compared to usage of round, curved tubing.

Further, as illustrated in FIG. 26, the plates defining a top surface503B of the platform portion 500B may include a plurality of apertures505B each respectively surrounded by a raised collar 507B. The apertures505B may reduce a weight of the platform portion 500B. Additionally, theapertures 505B and the raised collars 507B may provide the top surface503B with enhanced traction to prevent slippage. However, as may beunderstood, in other embodiments the top surface of the platform portionmay be provided with other textures or patterns in order to providetraction.

As illustrated in FIG. 31, the frame post 300B may extend through theplatform portion 500B. A bracket 509B may engage the platform frame 502Band the frame post 300B to prevent movement therebetween after the framepost is inserted through the platform portion 500B.

As illustrated in FIG. 26, the tree stand 10B may further include alower engagement device 28B and one or more upper mounting systems 25B.The lower engagement device 28B and the upper mounting systems 25B maybe configured to engage a structure such as a tree trunk. The uppermounting systems 25B may be substantially similar to the upper mountingsystems 25 described above with respect to FIG. 22.

In this regard, as illustrated in FIG. 30, each upper mounting system25B may include an upper engagement device 20B fixedly mounted to anupper portion of the frame post 300B.

Each upper engagement device 20B may include at least one flange 21Bextending outwardly from a bracket plate 27B fixedly mounted to theframe post 300B. The flanges 21B, such as adjacent flanges, of the upperengagement devices 20B may include a convexly, outwardly protruding edgewith a series of teeth configured to grip an exterior surface of a treetrunk. This convex, protruding shape of the edges of the upperengagement device 20B may allow the horizontal angle of the tree standto be easily adjusted such that the tree stand may face a desireddirection. In this regard the convex shape may engage a tree trunk in amanner that is similar to the manner by which two gears engage oneanother, thereby facilitating positioning of the tree stand in a desireddirection prior to securing the tree stand to the structure. Each uppermounting system 25B may further include a tie down mechanism 22B havinga flexible tensile member connected to the bracket plate 27B, and amechanical ratchet 29B connected to the bracket plate. The flexibletensile member may be in the form of a woven material such as, forexample, a rope, strap, cable, webbing, and/or the like. A first end ofthe flexible tensile member can be connected to the bracket plate 27B,and the tensile member can be extended at least partially around thetree trunk. The second end of the tensile member can then be connectedto the spindle of the mechanical ratchet 29B, and the mechanical ratchetmay be manually operated by repeatedly pivoting a lever so that themechanical ratchet tightens the tensile member around the tree trunk andthe teeth of the upper engagement devices 20 securely engage the treetrunk.

For each upper mounting system 25B, there can be at least one connectionbetween the frame post 300B of the tree stand 10B and the mechanicalratchet 29B of the tie down mechanism 22B. For example, for each uppermounting system 25B, an upper linkage 24B can connect the mechanicalratchet 29B to the bracket plate 27B. By way of further example, foreach upper mounting system 25B, the upper linkage 24B can include a bar26B or other suitable structure having opposite ends that arerespectively pivotably connected between flanges 21B of the upperengagement devices 20B and the mechanical ratchets 29B of the tie downmechanism 22B. For example, the bar 26B may be a substantially rigidlink, rod or other suitable connector member that is in the form of astrip of metal or other suitable material. The bar 26B may be connectedto the upper engagement device 20B by a lug or pivot pin having oppositeends respectively connected to end portions of the flanges 21B of theupper engagement device. While the teeth of the upper engagement devices20B are engaged against or suitably proximate the exterior surface of atree trunk, the free end of the tensile member of each tie downmechanism 22B may be extended at least partially around the tree trunkand then be drawn tightly into the tie down mechanism, for mounting theupper portion of the frame post 300B and, thus, the tree stand 10B, tothe tree trunk.

Once a desired horizontal angle is selected using the convex uppermounting system 25B, the lower engagement device 28B may be engaged withthe structure. As illustrated in FIG. 31, flanges 31B of the lowerengagement device 28B define concave receiving edges configured toreceive the structure therein. However, as may be understood, in otherembodiments the engagement device may be V-shaped or define multipleseparated edges that extend vertically in order to allow the structureto be received therein and secure the tree stand at the horizontal angleselected. Thereby, although the upper mounting system 25B may beconfigured to allow the tree stand 10B to roll against the structuresuch that the tree stand points in a desired horizontal direction, thelower engagement device 28B may be configured to engage the structure toprevent further rotational movement once a desired direction of the treestand is selected and the mounting apparatus is engaged with thestructure. Thereby, the tree stand 10A may be securely retained in adesired position. In this regard, regardless of the particularconfiguration thereof, one of an upper engagement device and a lowerengagement device may allow horizontal rolling movement against thestructure, whereas the other of the upper and lower engagement devicesmay substantially prevent such movement once a desired position isselected.

Additionally, the lower engagement device 28B may be similar to thelower engagement device 28 described above (see, e.g., FIG. 23). In thisregard, as illustrated in FIG. 31, the position of the lower engagementdevice 28B may be adjusted via a lower linkage 30B including first andsecond rods 34B as described above. However, the rods 34B may not engagethe platform frame 502B in the manner described above with respect toFIG. 23. Rather, the frame post 300B may include one or more horizontalextensions 308B, which may define a hollow, substantially rectangularcross-section. As described above, usage of straight, substantiallyrectangular components, as opposed to curved tubular components, mayreduce component costs.

The horizontal extensions 308B my each include one or more lateralthroughholes 310B. Thereby, each of the horizontal extensions 308B mayreceive one of the rods 34B through the respective throughhole 310B.Further, the horizontal extensions 308B may each include one or morevertical throughholes 312B and the rods may each include a plurality ofcorresponding vertical throughholes 314B. Thereby, a respective bolt,pin, or other similar fastener may be inserted through each ofthroughholes 312B defined in the horizontal extensions 308B and througha respective one of the rods 34B at a desired one of the correspondingvertical throughholes 314B that positions the lower engagement device28B as desired with respect to the structure to which the tree stand 10Bis attached. Alternatively, the fastener may be inserted at a desiredthroughhole 314B in each rod 34B which may then be pressed against arear surface of the horizontal extension 308B when the lower engagementdevice 28B engages the structure. Thereby, the vertical throughholes312B in the horizontal extensions 308B may only be employed to retainthe rods 34B in place during lifting of the tree stand into position.

Extending both of the rods 34B may angle the tree stand upwardly,whereas retracting both of the rods may angle the tree stand downwardly.Extending one of the rods 34B more than the other rod may assist inaccommodating the contours of the structure (e.g., a tree), or provide adesired horizontal angle such that the tree stand points in a desireddirection. In some embodiments one or more bubble levels 35B may allow auser to set the tree stand substantially perfectly vertical and flatwith respect to horizontal. In one embodiment, as illustrated, thebubble levels 35B may be placed on surfaces configured to be horizontaland oriented perpendicular to one another. Thereby, the left/right tilt(e.g., “roll”) and fore/aft tilt (e.g., “pitch”) may be set such thatthe tree stand 10B, and in particular the platform portion 500B, may besubstantially horizontal.

As illustrated in FIGS. 26-30, the tree stand 10B may additionallyinclude a lower mounting system 45B. The lower mounting system 45B maybe engaged with the frame post 300B below the upper mounting systems25B. In one embodiment, as illustrated, the lower mounting system 45Bmay be positioned above the platform portion 500B, so as to facilitateaccess thereto. The lower mounting system 45B may include a tie downmechanism 52B having a bracket plate 50B, a flexible tensile memberconnected to the bracket plate, and a mechanical ratchet 23B.

The flexible tensile member may be in the form of a woven material suchas, for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing, and/or the like. A firstend of the tensile member can be connected to the bracket plate 50B, andthe tensile member can be extended at least partially around a structure(e.g., a tree trunk). The second end of the flexible tensile member canthen be connected to the spindle of the mechanical ratchet 23B, and themechanical ratchet may be manually operated by repeatedly pivoting alever so that the mechanical ratchet tightens the tensile member aroundthe tree trunk. Thereby, the teeth of the lower engagement device 28B(see, e.g., FIG. 31) may securely engage the tree trunk as the lowermounting system 45B draws the frame post 300B toward the tree trunk.

As described hereinafter, in some embodiments the tree stands of thepresent disclosure may be configured to operate in conjunction with oneor more accessories, which may be attached thereto. In this regard, insome embodiments the tree stands may include features configured toengage accessories.

For example, FIG. 30 illustrates an accessory mount 75B according to anexample embodiment of the present disclosure. As illustrated, theaccessory mount 75B may include one or more mounting bars 77B. One ormore mounting holes 79B may be defined in the one or more mounting bars77B. The mounting bars 77B may extend substantially horizontally whenthe tree stand 10B is mounted to a structure such as a tree. Asdescribed below, an accessory may engage one or more of the mountingbars 77B and a pin or other fastener may be received through theaccessory and one or more of the mounting holes 79B in the mountingbars.

Thereby, an accessory may be engaged with one or more of the mountingbars 77B in order to retain the accessory in engagement with the treestand 10B. In some embodiments the accessory mount 75B may include firstand second mounting bars 77B, which may extend substantially parallel toone another. The mounting holes 79B in an upper one of the mounting bars79B may align with the mounting holes in a lower one of the mountingbars. Thereby, in some embodiments a single pin or other single fastenermay extend through two of the mounting bars 77B via the mounting holes79B defined therein.

In some embodiments the mounting bars 77B may extend through the framepost 300B. Further, as illustrated in FIG. 27, in some embodiments themounting bars 77B may align with the upper mounting system(s) 25B.Thereby, the fasteners employed to engage the mounting system(s) 25Bwith the frame post 300B may also engage the mounting bars 77B with theframe post. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 26, one or more bolts81B may extend through each of the mounting bars 77B and into the one ormore mounting systems 25B. Thereby, the bolts 81B may retain themounting holes 79B (see, FIG. 30) in the desired vertical orientation atwhich the mounting holes are aligned.

As may be understood, some or all of the features of the tree stand 10Bdescribed above may be included in a tree stand system. In this regard,FIGS. 32-34 illustrate a tree stand system 2010B that may includefeatures of the tree stand 10B of FIGS. 26-31. For example, the treestand system 2010B may include the seating portion 100B and the framepost 300B (see, FIGS. 33 and 34) and some or all of the correspondingcomponents described above engaged therewith. Note that a seat cover ofthe seat portion 100B is not illustrated. However, the tree stand system2010B may include a seat cover which may be substantially similar to theseat cover 101 described above (see, e.g., FIG. 1A).

The platform portion 2500B may substantially similar to the platformportion 500B (see, e.g., FIG. 26), except the platform portion may beconfigured to support a handrail 706B. Further, a forward step 702B maybe engaged with the platform portion 2500B. A ladder 700B may extenddownwardly from the forward step 702B.

The ladder 700B may include a ladder frame 701B, which may includesubstantially parallel bars that define a rectangular cross-sectionextending upwardly toward the forward step 702B, and a plurality ofrungs 704B extending therebetween. The ladder 700B may comprise aplurality of ladder segments that may be combined to define a desiredlength corresponding to height of the forward step 702B relative to theground. The handrail 706B may terminate at the forward step 702B ratherthan extend down the ladder 706B. In this regard, the relatively larger,rectangular configuration of the ladder frame 701B may be suitable forhand engagement.

As may be understood, the tree stand system may be modified inaccordance with other embodiments of the present disclosure. Forexample, FIG. 35 illustrates a tree stand system 2100B' according to anadditional example embodiment of the present disclosure including adouble seating portion 1100B configured to seat two people. Further, thetree stand system 2010B' may include a ladder 700B including a ladderframe 701B and a plurality of rungs 704B, a handrail 706B', a forwardstep 702B', a platform portion 2500B', and a plurality of frame posts300B.

The platform portion 2500B' may be substantially similar to the platformportion 2500B described above (see, e.g., FIG. 34), except the platformportion may be configured to support and engage the double seatingportion 1100B. Further, the handrail 706B' and the forward step 702B'may be substantially similar to the handrail 706B and the forward step702B described above (see, e.g., FIG. 34) except these elements may beadapted in size to accommodate the dimensions of the platform portion2500B', which may be relatively wider than the platform portion 2500Bdescribed above in order to accommodate the double seating portion1100B.

In this regard, the double seating portion 1100B may include two singleseating portions 100B, which may be positioned beside one another,facing the same direction. Note that a seat cover of each seat portion100B is not illustrated. However, each seat portion 100B may include aseat cover which may be substantially similar to the seat cover 101described above (see, e.g., FIG. 1A). Each seating portion 100B may beengaged with a respective frame post 300B. A respective seating bracket110B may retain each single seating portion 100B in engagement with thecorresponding frame post 300B.

Each frame post 300B may extend through the platform portion 2500B'. Inthis regard, the platform portion 2500B' may include two openingsconfigured to receive the frame posts 300B therethrough. The frame posts300B may be equally spaced along the width of the platform portion2500B' at a distance sufficient to accommodate each of the seatingportions 100B. In view of the frame posts 300B being displaced from acenter of the width of the platform portion 2500B', the tree standsystem 2100B' may include features configured to allow for centralplacement of the lower engagement device 28B, the lower linkage 30B, andthe one or more upper mounting systems 25B with respect to the width ofthe platform portion in order to allow the lower engagement device andthe upper mounting system to engage a structure (e.g., a tree trunk) ina stable manner.

In this regard, as illustrated, one or more cross-members 83B may extendbetween and engage the frame posts 300B above the platform portion2500B'. The one or more upper mounting systems 25B may be engaged withthe one or more cross-member 83B at a position centrally disposedbetween the frame posts 300B. Further, a horizontal extension 308B' mayextend between the frame posts 300B below the platform portion 2500B'.In this regard, whereas the horizontal extensions 308B described above(see, e.g., FIG. 31) extend outwardly from a frame post 300B, thehorizontal extension 308B′ of the present embodiment extends between thetwo frame posts. Thereby, the lower engagement device 28B and the lowerlinkage 30 may be engaged with the horizontal extension 308B′ at aposition centrally disposed between the frame posts 300B in order tocentrally support the tree stand system 2100B'.

As noted above, the tree stand systems of the present disclosure mayinclude a plurality of climbing sticks, which may also be referred to asladder sticks. An example embodiment of a climbing stick 3000 isillustrated in FIGS. 36-38. As illustrated, the tree stick 3000 mayinclude a frame, which may comprise a central frame 3002, and aplurality of steps 3004 engaged therewith. In the illustrated embodimentthree steps 3004 are engaged with the central frame 3002. The steps 3004may comprise a width from about ten inches to about fourteen inches anda depth from about six inches to about ten inches in order to provide alarge surface area suitable for climbing and stepping thereon.

In one embodiment each step 3004 may be integral. In another embodiment,as illustrated, each step 3004 may comprise a first section 3006 and asecond section 3008, in order to reduce the size of the components ofthe climbing stick for reduced manufacturing costs and ease ofdisassembled transport thereof. In some embodiments the first section3006 and the second section 3008 may be identical in order to reducecosts associated with the climbing stick 3000.

In this regard, as illustrated in FIG. 38, the sections 3006, 3008 mayeach include a plurality of inner protrusions 3010 configured to form aninterlocking relationship with one the inner protrusions of the opposingsection and to receive the central frame 3002 therebetween. A bolt 3012or other fastener may extend through the sections 3006, 3008 at theinner protrusions 3010 and the central frame 3002 to retain the sectionsof the steps 3004 in engagement with the central frame.

The sections 3006, 3008, may each further include a plurality of outerprotrusions 3014. In this regard, in use the outer protrusions 3014 ofeach section 3006, 3008 may be placed into engagement with the structure(e.g., tree) on which the tree stand is to be installed. Further aflexible tensile member may be connected to a first end 3016 of abracket 3018, wrapped around the structure, and secured to a second end3020 of the bracket. The flexible tensile member may be in the form of awoven material such as, for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing,and/or the like. The climbing stick 3000 may be oriented such that thebracket 3018 is proximate the top thereof to provide improved stability.Upon tightening the flexible tensile member, the climbing stick 300 maybe secured to the structure and the outer protrusions 3014 may dig intothe structure so as to substantially prevent movement thereof when auser climbs thereon. Additional climbing sticks may be installed on thestructure in a spaced vertical relationship to allow the user to ascendthe tree.

Once the user reaches a desired height, a hoisting apparatus may beemployed to lift the tree stand into place at an elevated height on thestructure (e.g., tree). One example embodiment of a hoisting apparatus600 is described above and illustrated in FIGS. 12A and 12B. FIGS. 39and 40 illustrate a hoisting apparatus 600A according to an additionalexample embodiment of the present disclosure. The hoisting apparatus600A may be configured to lift a tree stand as described above withrespect to the hoisting apparatus 600 of FIGS. 12A and 12B. Accordingly,operation of the hoisting apparatus will not be described in detail forbrevity purposes.

Briefly, however, the hoisting apparatus 600A includes an upper mount602A. The upper mount 602A may include an eyelet 604A configured todirectly or indirectly engage a flexible tensile member that extendsaround the structure (e.g., a tree) when the hoisting apparatus 600A ispositioned at a desired height therealong. The flexible tensile membermay be in the form of a woven material such as, for example, a rope,strap, cable, webbing, and/or the like.

Further, the hoisting apparatus 600A may include a hoisting mechanism606A. The hoisting mechanism 606A may be at least partially receivedwithin a frame 607A, which may define the upper mount 602A. The hoistingmechanism 606A may include a motion input member 608A including anexternal engagement member 610A fixedly coupled to a driving screw 612A.The external engagement member 610A may be configured for engagementwith a hand crank, an electric drill, or the like. In some embodimentsthe external engagement member 610a and all or substantially all of thefasteners employed in the tree stands disclosed herein may define thesame size and shape such that a single tool may be employed to rotateeach to assemble and install the tree stand.

When the motion input member 608A is rotated, the screw member 612A mayrotate, thereby driving a gear 614A. The gear 614A may be fixedlycoupled to a rotatable drum 616A. The rotatable drum 616A may beconfigured to engage a first end of an additional flexible tensilemember. The flexible tensile member may be in the form of a wovenmaterial such as, for example, a rope, strap, cable, webbing, and/or thelike. The flexible tensile member may extend between a pair of guides620A to a second end. The second end of the flexible tensile member maybe affixed to a tree stand. For example, a harness may include aplurality of hooks that engage the tree stand to allow for stabilelifting thereof. Thereby, the tree stand may be hoisted up the structure(e.g., a tree) to the desired height as the flexible tensile member iswound about the rotatable drum 616A.

As noted above, the tree stand systems of the present disclosure mayinclude one or more accessories. In one embodiment the accessory mount75B (see, e.g., FIG. 30) may be configured to engage the accessories.For example, FIG. 41 illustrates an accessory receiver 3100 according toan example embodiment of the present disclosure. The accessory receiver3100 may include one or more coupling members 3102. The coupling members3102 may be configured to slide over, or into the mounting bars 77B ofthe accessory mount 75B (see, FIG. 30). Further, the coupling members3102 may each include one or more corresponding mounting holes 3104configured to align with the mounting holes 79B of the mounting bars 77Bof the accessory mount 75B when the accessory receiver 3100 is engagedwith the accessory mount. Accordingly, at least one pin or otherfastener may be inserted through the mounting holes 3104 of the couplingmembers 3102 and the mounting holes 79B of the mounting bars 77B toretain the accessory receiver in engagement with the accessory mount75B.

The accessory receiver 3100 may extend to a receiving end 3106. Thereceiving end of the accessory receiver 3100 may include a receivingaperture 3108. The receiving aperture 3108 may be configured to receivean accessory.

For example, FIG. 42 illustrates a bow holder accessory 3200 configuredto hold a hunting bow. As illustrated, the bow holder accessory 3200 mayinclude a mounting pin 3202. The mounting pin 3202 may be configured toengage the receiving aperture 3108 of the accessory receiver 3100 (see,FIG. 41). As may be understood, in other embodiments the accessoryreceiver may include the mounting pin and the bow holder accessory mayinclude the mounting receiving aperture or other correspondingengagement mechanisms may be employed. In a preferred embodiment theengagement mechanism may allow for relative rotation between theaccessory receiver and the accessory to provide for improved access tothe accessory and any item engaged therewith. In this regard, the bowholder accessory and each other accessory provided herein may extend toa position in front of the seat portion.

Further, the bow holder accessory 3200 may include an extensible section3204 and a corresponding receiving section 3206. The extensible section3204 may be adjusted in position with respect to the receiving section3206 until the bow holder accessory 3200 defines a desired length. Theextensible section 3204 may define a plurality of apertures 3208 and apin 3210 or other fastener may be inserted through the receiving section3206 and the aperture corresponding to the desired length of theextensible section.

The bow holder accessory 3200 may further include a hook 3212. The hookmay be configured to engage any suitable portion of a hunting bow orother device. Thereby, the hunting bow or other device may be positionedfor rapid and easy access. For example, a bow may be quickly accessed inthe event of a sighting of game with minimal user movement.

As may be understood various other or additional accessories may beincluded in the tree stand systems of the present disclosure. Forexample, FIGS. 43 and 44 illustrate a hunting device accessory 3300according to an example embodiment of the present disclosure. Asillustrated, the hunting device accessory 3300 may include a mountingend 3302. As illustrated in FIG. 44, the mounting end 3302 of thehunting device accessory 3300 may be configured to engage the receivingend 3106 of the accessory receiver 3100. Further, a fastener 3304 suchas a pin or bolt may secure the mounting end 3302 of the hunting deviceaccessory 3300 to the receiving end 3106 of the accessory receiver 3100.Thereby, the hunting device accessory 3300 may be engaged with a treestand and included in a hunting stand system as described elsewhereherein.

The hunting device accessory 3300 may be configured to pivot orotherwise move with respect to the accessory receiver 3100 at theinterface therebetween. Further, the hunting device accessory 3300 mayinclude a joint 3306 between first and second links 3308, 3310 thereofthat allows for pivoting movement or other movement therebetween. Thehunting device accessory 3300 may include a hunting device holder 3312.The hunting device holder 3312 may be configured to hold a rifle,crossbow, or other hunting device. In this regard, the hunting deviceholder 3312 may include two opposing bars 3314. The opposing bars 3314may be configured to receive the stock of the hunting devicetherebetween. For example, the stock of the hunting device may bereceived between the bars 3314 such that the butt thereof extendsslightly past and between the ends of the bars. Conversely, theforestock or other portion of the hunting device closer to a front orshooting end of the hunting device may be supported in a groove 3316defined by a front support member 3318. Thereby, the hunting device maybe fully supported by the bars 3314 and the front support member 3318.

The hunting device accessory 3300 may be configured to allow formovement of the hunting device holder 3312. In this regard, the huntingdevice holder 3312 may be connected to the second link 3310 via afastener 3320 such as a pin or bolt that allows rotation therebetween.Further, a bar joint 3322 may allow for rotational adjustment of thehunting device holder 3312 in a direction perpendicular to theadjustment allowed by the joint between the hunting device holder 3312and the second link 3310. In some embodiments the bar joint 3322 mayinclude a locking mechanism 3324 that allows on the fly locking andunlocking of the bar joint.

Additionally, the front support member 3318 may include a support joint3326. The support joint 3326 may allow for rotational adjustment in adirection perpendicular to the adjustment allowed by the joint betweenthe hunting device holder 3312 and the second link 3310. Alternatively,the support joint 3326 may be fixed in place. In this regard, uponassembly, the front support member 3318 may be properly aligned with theremainder of the hunting device holder 3312.

The hunting device may be supported by the hunting device holder 3300 ina desired position. In some embodiments a user may shoot or otherwiseoperate the hunting the device while the hunting device is engaged with,and retained in, the hunting device holder 3312. In this regard, theuser may position the hunting device at an optimal position for usethereof with minimal movement required. Alternatively, if desired, auser may remove the hunting device from the hunting device holder 3312prior to shooting or otherwise operating the hunting device.

As illustrated in FIGS. 43 and 44, in some embodiments the huntingdevice holder 3312 may include a mount 3328 (e.g., a ball mount)configured to engage a camera or video camera. Thereby, when the huntingdevice is shot or otherwise operated while engaged with the huntingdevice holder 3312, and the camera or video camera is initially properlyaligned with the hunting device via the mount 3328, images or video maybe easily captured of the target.

As described above, embodiments of the tree stands of the presentdisclosure may include a lower linkage that may provide for adjustmentof the lower engagement device (e.g., adjustment of the extension and/orangle thereof to adjust pitch and roll of the tree stand). As should beunderstood, in other embodiments the upper engagement device mayadditionally or alternatively include an upper linkage that provides foradjustment of the extension and/or angle thereof in the same mannerdescribed herein with respect to the lower linkage and the lowerengagement device.

As may be understood, the tree stand systems of the present disclosuremay provide numerous benefits as compared to traditional tree stands.For example, the seat portion may be relatively wider (e.g., defining awidth from about twenty inches to about thirty inches), therebyproviding improved comfort. Further, the platform portion may provide auser with stability and enhanced safety. Note that although the treestands of the present disclosure may be relatively bigger thantraditional tree stands, lightweight but strong materials such asaluminum or titanium may be employed, except where otherwise indicatedherein), to provide the tree stand with a relatively light weight.

Many modifications and other aspects of the disclosure will come to mindto one skilled in the art to which this disclosure pertains having thebenefit of the teachings presented in the foregoing descriptions and theassociated drawings. Therefore, it is to be understood that thedisclosure is not to be limited to the specific aspects disclosed hereinand that modifications and other aspects are intended to be includedwithin the scope of the appended claims. Although specific terms areemployed herein, they are used in a generic and descriptive sense onlyand not for purposes of limitation.

1. A tree stand system, comprising: a tree stand, including: a framepost; a platform portion engaged with the frame post; a seat portionengaged with the frame post; and an upper engagement device and a lowerengagement device each engaged with the frame post, the platformportion, or the seat portion, and arranged to engage a structure so asto secure the tree stand to the structure; and a hoisting apparatusarranged to be engaged between the structure and the tree stand so as toraise or lower the tree stand in relation to an elevated position alongthe structure for the tree stand to be secured to the structure at theelevated position via the upper and lower engagement devices.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the hoisting apparatus comprises a rotatabledrum member having a flexible tensile member engaged therewith, thetensile member being engaged between the drum member and the tree stand,and being responsive to rotation of the drum member so as to coil aboutor uncoil from the drum member to raise or lower the tree stand inrelation to the elevated position.
 3. The system of claim 2, wherein thehoisting apparatus comprises a mounting bracket having the drum memberrotatably mounted therein, the mounting bracket further including astructure-engaging device arranged to mount the mounting bracket to thestructure above the elevated position.
 4. The system of claim 2, whereinthe hoisting apparatus comprises an actuation member operably engagedwith the drum member and arranged to receive an input, the actuationmember being responsive to the input to rotate the drum member to coilor uncoil the tensile member with respect thereto so as to raise orlower the tree stand.
 5. The system of claim 4, wherein the hoistingapparatus comprises a gear reduction arrangement operably engagedbetween the actuation member and the drum member.
 6. The system of claim5, wherein the gear reduction arrangement being arranged to have areduction ratio of about 30:1.
 7. The system of claim 4, wherein theinput to the actuation member is provided by a rotational device.
 8. Thesystem of claim 7, wherein the rotational device is a drilling device.9. The system of claim 1, wherein the tensile member comprises a wovenmember.
 10. The system of claim 9, wherein the woven member comprises arope, a strap, a cable, a webbing, or combinations thereof
 11. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein a first engagement device of the upper andlower engagement devices defines a convex edge configured to extendtoward the structure to allow the tree stand to roll against thestructure to select a horizontal angle that the tree stand faces
 12. Thesystem of claim 11, wherein a second engagement device of the upper andlower engagement devices, the second engagement device being differentfrom the first engagement device, is engaged with a linkage arranged tomove the second engagement device toward or away from the structure andto adjust a horizontal angle of the second engagement device withrespect to the structure
 13. The system of claim 12, wherein the linkagecomprises first and second rods each being extensible in parallel witheach other and with respect to the frame post, the platform portion, orthe seat portion, wherein the first and second rods have distal endspivotably engaged with opposed ends of the second engagement device, andwherein each of the first and second rods is independently adjustable inlength between the second engagement device and the frame post, theplatform portion, or the seat portion.
 14. The system of claim 13,wherein the second engagement device is extensible between the distalends of the first and second extensible rods to facilitate unequalparallel extensions of the first and second rods.
 15. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the second engagement device defines one or morereceiving edges configured to at least partially surround the structureand secure the tree stand at the horizontal angle selected.
 16. Thesystem of claim 15, wherein the convex edge and the one or morereceiving edges each define a plurality of teeth.
 17. The system ofclaim 1, wherein the tree stand further comprises an upper tie downmechanism configured to extend around the structure, the upperengagement device and the upper tie down mechanism each being engagedwith the frame post at a same height therealong.
 18. The system of claim17, wherein the tree stand further comprises a lower tie down mechanismengaged with the frame post between the upper tie down mechanism and theplatform portion.
 19. The system of claim 1, wherein the upperengagement device is positioned above the platform portion and the lowerengagement device is positioned below the platform portion.
 20. Thesystem of claim 1, wherein the tree stand further comprises an accessorymount engaged with the frame post behind the seat portion.
 21. Thesystem of claim 20, wherein the accessory mount comprises first andsecond mounting bars extending substantially parallel to one another.22. The system of claim 20, further comprising an accessory configuredto engage the accessory mount and extend to a position in front of theseat portion, wherein the accessory is hunting device accessory or a bowholder accessory.
 23. The system of claim 1, wherein the tree standfurther comprises a second frame post engaged with the platform portionand a second seat portion engaged with the second frame post.
 24. Thesystem of claim 23, wherein the tree stand further comprises across-member extending between the frame post and the second frame post,and wherein the upper engagement device is engaged with thecross-member.
 25. The system of claim 1, wherein the tree stand furthercomprises a ladder and a forward step operably engaged with the platformportion, the forward step being disposed between the platform portionand the ladder.
 26. The system of claim 1, further comprising one ormore climbing sticks, each climbing stick comprising a central frame anda plurality of steps engaged with the central frame, wherein each of thesteps comprises a first section and a second section, the first sectionand the second section being substantially identical and oppositelydisposed about the central frame.
 27. The system of claim 26, whereinthe first section and the second section each define a plurality ofinner protrusions cooperatively surrounding the central frame.